Bonaguil Castle
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Bonaguil Castle - by Management
Description
Château de Bonaguil is a castle located in the village of Saint-Front-sur-Lémance, in the Lot et Garonne department of southwestern France. It is an excellent example of defensive fortified castle, built in the 13th century and expanded in the late 15th, perched on a rocky promontory. It is now owned and operated by the commune of Fumel and classified as an historical monument. The visit can be self-guided or following a guide (timing available by calling the castle on +33 5 53 41 90 71, or when reaching). Most of the castle can be visited in about 60-90mins. The path is described here in French: http://www.chateau-bonaguil.com/en/node/22
Access & Transport
Driving is very much the recommended option but there are several ways to get there depending on where you will be coming from. The closest large town is Agen 60kms away, followed by Montauban at 80km. However, driving from Bordeaux, one would route through Marmande and from Toulouse one would exit the A63 in Castelsarrasin. There are 2 free parkings in the village and near the castle.
Instructions & Recommendations
If you are visiting on a Thursday, we suggest heading first to the weekly market of Monsempron-Libos market (12km away). We also recommend you have a functioning GPS or check you map before driving there.
Environmental & Social
Environmentally neutral. Helps preserve the region's architectural and cultural heritages and brings some economic influx to the surrounding villages
Conclusion
The Château de Bonaguil is a picture perfect medieval fortified castle that provides an opportunity for visitors to learn more not only about military defence of the time but about the region's history. Plenty of rooms but do not expect to see much inside. This means that unless you are passionate about castles, we would not recommend driving long distance solely for this sight; but if you are within a 45mins radius it is clearly worth a detour.
Key positive
Extremely well preserved and photogenic ruins of a fortified castle
Comprehensive visit with detailed explanations
Key negative
Can be a little tricky to find and out of the way
Suitability
Suitable for all ages but younger kids may not remain interested for long. The ruins are not accessible for visitors with reduced mobility.
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
May 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 45m
est. visit time:1h 30m
Start of Season 1:Mar, 01
MONDAY10:00 - 18:00
TUESDAY10:00 - 18:00
WEDNESDAY10:00 - 18:00
THURSDAY10:00 - 18:00
FRIDAY10:00 - 18:00
SATURDAY10:00 - 18:00
SUNDAY10:00 - 18:00
Start of Season 2:Nov, 01
MONDAY -
TUESDAY -
WEDNESDAY -
THURSDAY -
FRIDAY -
SATURDAY -
SUNDAY -